Abid Naseer, alleged leader of al-Qaida bomb plot, to be extradited

MI5 alleged Abid Naseer wrote coded e-mails to an al-Qaeda member Photograph: Handout

The extradition of an alleged leader of an al-Qaida plot to bomb British and US targets was approved today. Abid Naseer is accused of a plot to bomb British targets and US authorities made the extradition request after alleging a link to a planned attack on a New York subway. US officials said the plot had been one of the most dangerous since the 9/11 attacks. Magistrates in central London approved the extradition application at a hearing at City of Westminster magistrates court but Naseer's lawyer said he would appeal. The case is now likely to go before the home secretary Theresa May for a final decision.